Energy and Commerce Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today in response to reports that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has notified dozens of scientists at EPA that their terms serving as advisors to the agency will not be renewed:
“EPA’s decision to not renew the terms of dozens of scientists serving on this important board is the EPA’s latest attack on science. After dismissing nine members of the Board of Scientific Counselors (BOSC) in May, Administrator Pruitt continues to deprive the EPA of critical scientific and technical expertise which undermines its ability to protect human health and the environment. The Chair of the Board’s Executive Committee rightfully concluded that this action ‘effectively wipes out the BOSC.’ The dismissal of these experts is further evidence that Pruitt is committed to helping polluters instead of protecting Americans from dangerous air and water pollution."
Pallone joined Science, Space, and Technology Ranking Member Eddie Bernice Johnson, and other Democratic leaders of both committees in a letter to Pruitt in May questioning the earlier dismissal of BOSC board members.
